Mining machine



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Wm" 5 I J8. .15 3 24 m h E 311% E2 Patented Dec. 1, 1936 UNi'iED STATES PATENT OFFICE MINING MACHINE Massachusetts Application August 28,

51 Claims.

This invention relates to mining machines, and more particularly to improvements in coal mining machines having improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism adapted to cut narrow kerfs in the mine wall.

An object of this invention is to provide an improved coal mining machine. Another object is to provide an improved coal mining machine having improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism. A further object is to provide an improved coal mining machine having a universal cutter head whereby kerfs may be out in the mine wall in a plurality of planes including horizontal, vertical and any desired intermediate planes. Still another object is to provide an improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism for a coal mining machine of the type slidable on its bottom on the mine floor during the cutting operation. Yet another object is to provide an improved adjust- 20 able kerf cutting mechanism whereby horizontal kerfs may be cut in the coal face at any desired location between the mine roof and mine floor and vertically disposed kerfs may be cut in the coal face and below the level of the mine floor. A further object is to provide an improved kerf cutter adjusting means and improved driving means for the adjusting means and kerf cutter. Yet another object is to provide an improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism for a coal mining machine of the so-called thin kerf type having a relatively thin cutter bar whereby relatively narrow kerfs may be cut in the coal face. A still further object is to provide an improved feeding mechanism for such a machine. Another 5 object is to provide an improved feeding mechanism for a coal mining machine of the flexibly fed type adapted for sliding movement over the mine floor during the cutting operation and wherein a plurality of feed operating and con- 0 trolling members cooperating with flexible feeding and controlling means are employed for feeding the machine over the mine floor both during cutting and during moving of the machine and having improved driving and controlling means for the feed operating and controlling members. Still another object is to provide an improved mining machine capable of operating as either a shortwall or longwall machine and having improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism whereby the cutter bar may be positioned to cut kerfs in horizontal or vertical planes, the kerf cutter also being adjustable into a position whereby the machine may operate as a strip pit shortwall or longwall cutter. These and other ob- 1933, Serial No. 687,108

jects and advantages of the invention will, however, hereinafter more fully appear.

In the accompanying drawings there is shown for purposes of illustration one form which the invention may assume in practice.

In these drawings:

Fig. 1 is a plan view of the illustrative form of the improved mining machine.

Fig. 2 is a side elevational view of the machine shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a horizontal sectional view with parts shown in plan showing the universal cutter head, the view being taken substantially on line 3-3 of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a longitudinally extending vertical sectional view taken substantially on line 4-4 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is a detail sectional view taken substantially on line 5-5 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 6 is a detail sectional view taken on line 65 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 7 is a detail sectional view taken on line 1'i of Fig. 3.

Fig. 8 is a transverse vertical sectional View taken substantially on line 88 of Figs. 2 and 9.

Fig. 9 is a longitudinally extending vertical sectional view taken substantially on line 9-9 of Fig. 1.

Fig. 10 is a horizontal cross sectional view taken substantially on line III-l0 of Fig. 9.

Fig. 11 is a cross sectional view taken on line ll ll of Fig. 10.

Fig. 12 is a cross sectional view taken on line l2-l2 of Fig. 10.

Fig. 13 is a diagrammatic view showing the machine operating as a shortwall coal cutter with the kerf cutter disposed at the level of the mine floor.

Fig. 14 is a diagrammatic view showing the machine operating as a shortwall cutter with the kerf cutter disposed at the level of the mine roof.

Fig. 15 is a diagrammatic view showing the machine operating as a shear or vertical cutter.

Fig. 16 is a diagrammatic view showing the machine operating as a longwall strip pit cutter.

Fig. 17 is a diagrammatic machine operating as a shortwall strip pit cutter.

Fig. 18 is a diagrammatic view showing the machine operating as a longwall cutter, with the kerf cutter in the horizontal cutting position.

Fig. 19 is a diagrammatic view showing the machine blocked up in an elevated position during 4 view showing the movement of the machine over a face conveyor.

In this illustrative embodiment of the invention there is shown a coal mining machine of the combined longwall, shortwall type generally comprising a portable base herein a bottom skid I having a plane bottom surface 2 and upturned front and side edges whereby the machine may rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor. Pivotally mounted at 3 on a transverse axis at the rear end of the skid for swinging movement in a vertical direction relative to the skid is an elongated arm structure 4 overlying the skid and having adjustably mounted thereon the improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism generally designated 5. The kerf cutting mechanism includes a rotatable cutter head 6 mounted for rotative movement about an axis extending longitudinally of the arm structure and having pivotally mounted thereon for swinging movement about a transverse axis at 1 a cutter support 3 which carries an endless chain kerf cutter S. The machine is fed over the mine floor by improved flexible feeding means including relatively rotatable, feed. operating and controlling rope winding drums IQ and H cooperating respectively with flexible feeding and controlling cables !2 and I3. Arranged adjacent the feed drums at the opposite rear corners of the skid are inclined guide sheaves 94-, I4, while arranged at the opposite front corners of the skid are horizontal guide sheaves i5, i5 and these guide sheaves guide the feed and controlling ropes in various manners during operation of the machine as either a shortwall or longwall cutter in the manner well understood to those skilled in the art. The machine may be fed longitudinally and laterally over the mine floor to effect sumping and withdrawal cuts and connecting transverse or rectilinear cuts, and the arm structure 4 may be swung vertically relative to the skid to move the cutter head into different elevated positions whereby the kerf cutter may cut kerfs in any desired horizontal planes and the head may be rotated to enable cutting in vertical planes in the coal face and beneath the level of the mine floor as will hereinafter be described.

In this illustrative construction, the arm structure 4 carries a motor, herein preferably of the reversible electric type, having its power shaft ll extending longitudinally of the arm structure and, in this instance, the casing l8 of this motor constitutes a part of the arm structure and forms a connecting element between a front head frame l9 rigidly fixed to the front end of the motor casing and a rear frame member 20 rigidly fixed to the rear end of the motor casing, the frame section 20 forming the housing for certain of the transmission gearings. The elements l9, l9 and 29 constitute a rigid arm swingable in a vertical direction about the horizontal transversely extending axis 3 relative to the bottom skid l. The skid I is provided with upstanding side frames 2!, 2|, the side frames extending vertically from the skid bottom and having rearwardly located integral annular bearing supporting portions 22, 22, as shown in Fig. 8. Carried within the bearing portions 22, 22 are bearing sleeves 23 which receive trunnions 24, 24 secured, as by screws 25, to the sides of the rear frame section 29 of the arm structure 4. It will thus be seen that the arm structure is mounted to swing in a vertical direction relative to the skid about the axes of the trunnions 24, 24 journaled within the bearing supports 22 of the skid frame. The means for swinging the arm is arranged beneath the arm structure between the arm structure and the skid bottom and is operated by the motor power shaft H, as hereinafter described.

The feeding and controlling drums l0 and H are arranged with their axes coincident with the axis of swinging movement of the arm structure, and the mechanism for driving these drums comprises a spur pinion 30 fixed to the rear end of the motor power shaft I! and meshing with a spur gear 3! having its hub keyed to a horizontal longitudinally extending shaft 32 suitably journaled within the rear frame section 29. Rotatable with and driven by the gear 3| is a spur pinion 33 meshing with a spur gear 34 keyed to a horizontal shaft 35 herein arranged parallel with the shaft 32 and disposed in the same horizontal plane, as shown in Figs. 10 and 11 and likewise suitably journaled within the rear frame section 20. Formed integral with and driven by the shaft 35 is a spur pinion 36 meshing with a spur gear 31 arranged coaxially with the gear 3| and journaled on a bearing sleeve 38 supported by the tubular portion of a transmission shaft 39. The gear 3! herein constitutes a high speed terminal gear, while the spur gear 31 constitutes a low speed terminal gear, the gear 31 being driven from the gear 3| at a relatively low speed through the reduction gearing 33, 34, 35. The shaft 39 is suitably journaled within the rear frame section 29 and the high speed gear 3| is connectible in driving relation with the shaft 39 by a multiple disc high speed clutch 40, while the low speed gear 31 is connectible to the shaft 39 by a multiple disc low speed clutch 4!. The operating means for the clutches 40, 4| including the automatic adjusting means for the clutch operating means for effecting low speed drive through the clutch 4| at variable speeds, will hereinafter be described. Formed integralwith the transmission shaft 39 is a horizontal worm 42 meshing with a worm wheel 43 arranged within the frame 20 and keyed at 44 to a horizontal transversely extending shaft 45 arranged with its axis alined with the axis of swinging movement of the arm structure and the feeding and controlling drum axes, as shown in Fig. 8. The shaft 45 is journaled within bearing sleeves 46, 46 arranged between the worm wheel 43 and the feeding and controlling drums and within bearing sleeves 41, 41 supported within the trunnions 24. The drums I0 and II are journaled on the shaft 45 and are connectible in driving relation with the shaft 45 by multiple disc clutches 4B, 49, respectively. The operating means for these clutches comprises an actuating rod 50 extending axially through a central bore 5! in the shaft 45 and having fixed thereto at its opposite ends operating handles 52 and 53, these handles being arranged within chambers or recesses 54 formed within the trunnions 24, 24 of the arm structure. Each of these handles is provided with a hub 55 arranged within an enlarged bore 56 formed in the shaft 45 and this hub is provided with clutch teeth 51' connectible with clutch teeth 58 formed on a clutch operating member 59 threaded at 60 within the shaft bore. The member 59 engages lever elements 6| interposed between sets of clutch discs and acting on a pressure plate 62 for each set, these levers projecting inwardly through apertures or slots 63 formed in the shaft 45 in the manner shown in Fig. 8. It will thus be seen that when the handle 52 is slid inwardly from the position shown in Fig. 8 it is clutched to the operating element 59, and upon rotation of the handle, the element 58 is rotated, and due to its threaded connection with the shaft is moved axially inwardly, thereby swinging the levers 6| to effect spreading of the pressure plates 62 thereby to apply the clutch, and as a result, the drum i0 is connected in driving relation with the shaft 45. When the control rod 58 is slid in the opposite direction the handle 52 is disconnected from its operating element 58, while the handle 53 is connected to its cooperating operating element, and upon rotation of the handle 53 the clutch within the drum II is applied, connecting the drum I I in driving relation with the shaft. It is therefore evident that the drums l8 and H may be separately or simultaneously connected in driving relation with the shaft 45.

The improved operating mechanism for the disc clutch 4! for effecting drive of the shaft 38 at variable speeds from the low speed terminal gear 37 comprises, as shown in Figs. 10, 11 and 12 a cam surface 65 formed on the low speed terminal gear 31, and cooperating with this cam surface is a plunger 65 guided for reciprocation in a bore 61 formed in the bracket 68 for the shaft bearings. This plunger is pivotally connected at 69 to a lever 18 fulcrumed for pivotal movement at H on an operating rod 12. The

end of the lever 78 opposite from its pivot 88 1 is pivotally connected at E3 to a member 14 having threadedly connected thereto the threaded end of the rod 15. The other end of the rod 15 is provided with a cylindrical enlargement 16 forming a shoulder 77; and a spring 78 is compressed between a nut 78 on the rod l5 and a collar 88 slidably mounted upon the rod and normally engaging the shoulder ll of the rod enlargement. The enlargement 18 of the rod passes through a trunnion device 85 comprising, as shown in Fig. 11, elements 82, 82 having concave recesses slidably engaging the cylindrical body of the rod enlargement 16. The elements 82 of the trunnion device are pivotally connected at 83 to a clutch shipper lever 84 which is pivotally supported at 85 within the rear frame section 28. This lever 84 has elements 86 engaging a ball bearing clutch applying ring 8'! surrounding and slidably mounted on the tubular portion of the shaft 39, as shown in Figs. 9 and 10. This clutch applying ring 81 is operative to transmit the pressure of the clutch shipper lever 84 to effect loading of the disc clutches 48 and ll. The lever 84 carries a trunnion device 88 comprising elements similar to the elements 82 of the trunnion device 8|, and this trunnion device engages a cylindrical portion 88 of the operating or adjusting rod for the fulcrum H of the lever 78. Threaded on the end of the cylindrical portion 88 of the operating rod is a nut 88. The opposite or rearward end of the rod 12 is provided with a threaded portion 8| threadedly engaging an operating handle 92, this handle in turn having its hub portion threadedly connected at 83 within the rear end wall of the rear frame section 28. It will thus be seen that when the parts are in the position shown in Fig. 10 and the cam surface 65 is rotated, the plunger 66 is moved axially to the right, swinging the lever H1 about its fulcrum H and thereby moving the rod 15 axially to the left. Movement to the left of the rod 15 will result in the transmission of no pressure to the clutch shipper lever 84 until the sliding collar 88 engages the end of the trunnion device 8!, but that further movement to the left of the rod will thereafter impart a load to the shipper lever 84 which will be determined by the extent of the movement of the rod and the degree of compression of the spring l8. It is therefore evident that as the cam surface 55 revolves, the shipper lever 88 is swung back and forth intermittently to apply the disc clutch 8i, and as a result the shaft 39 is intermittently rotated at a relatively low speed. The rod 72 provides a movable fulcrum for the lever 18, and upon movement of this rod 12 by the hand Wheel 82 in an axial direction to the right in Fig. 10, the interval of engagement of the plunger 66 with the cam surface 85 will be varied, and as a result, the time of application of the disc clutch M will be correspondingly varied. Upon movement of the lever fulcrum H to the right, to a position sufiicient to bring the plunger 56 out of engagement withthe cam surface, the disc clutch 8! is maintained in released position during rotation of the cam surface. Upon further movement of the operating rod 12 to the right, the nut engages the trunnion device 88 and swings the shipper lever 84 to move the shipper ring 81 to the left to apply the high speed disc clutch 88, the slow speed disc clutch being of course at that time released. When the rod '52 is moved to the left so far that the collar 88 continuously presses under the pressure of the spring 78 against the trunnion device 85, continuous rotation of the shaft 88 will take place and the spring will compress during each revolution of the cam an amount substantially equal to the full throw of the cam; but since.

the load of the spring is above the minimum necessary to effect power transmission through the clutch discs, there will be no release even when the lowest point in the cam is opposite the plunger 68. By moving the rod 12 graduated amounts toward the right in Fig. 10, the period of drive during each revolution of the cam may be progressively reduced until it is entirely discontinued. Therefore, the drive through the clutch 4! may be so adjusted as to obtain a continuous maximum low speed drive and an intermittent low speed drive from said maximum low speed down to zero and that a predetermined high speed drive may be attained through the clutch 88, As a result, the feed and controlling drums l0 and H may be driven in the rope winding direction at a relatively high predetermined speed, at a maximum low speed and at intermittent low speeds between said maximum low speed down to zero.

The improved means operated by the motor for swinging the arm structure 4 about its pivot relative to the skid comprises a pair of parallel longitudinally disposed cylinders arranged beneath the arm structure and secured in a suitable manner to the skid bottom. Reciprocable within these cylinders are pistons 86 having piston rods 81 extending rearwardly through suitable stuffing boxes carried by the rear cylinder heads. These piston rods are pivotally connected at 98 to a transverse equalizer bar or cross member 98. Pivotally connected to the ends of this equalizer bar are connecting rods H88 extending rearwardly beneath the rear frame section 28 and pivotally connected at their rear ends at 8! to depending portions of the frame 28. Meshing with the gear 8! of the drum drive gearing is a gear IBZ '(see Fig. 10) driving a pump E83 arranged within the frame 28 for supplying fluid under pressure through suitable valve controlled pipe connections to the cylinders to effect reciprocation of the pistons. Obviously such, valve and piping may assume various forms, such as a. fourway valve controlling communication between a;

supply connection from the pump and a discharge line to a reservoir, and connections to the cylinders; and a suitably loaded bypass to discharge and any suitable reservoir, for example, the space within the former, or a tank in the latter, can be used. It will thus be seen that the cylinders and pistons form a hydraulic lifting device for the arm structure and are operative to swing and hold the arm structure in any of its positions.

Now referring to the improved kerf cutting mechanism, it will be noted that rotatably mounted on the head frame III of the arm structure is a bifurcated or yoke shaped frame I05 of the rotatable cutter head 6. This head frame I9 has a circular bearing support I06 on which the hub of a worm wheel I01 is journaled, and the head yoke I05 is fixed to the worm wheel as by screws I08. The yoke frame and head frame cooperate to form a chamber I09 within which the worm wheel I01 is housed, and also arranged within this chamber on a transverse axis is a Worm I I0 meshing with the worm wheel I01 and fixed to a transverse shaft III. Fixed to one end of this shaft is an operating handle II2. It will thus be evident that when the worm III) is rotated by the operating handle N2, the worm wheel is rotated, rotating therewith the cutter head. This worm gearing is self-locking and holds automatically the cutter head against rotation in the different adjusted positions of the head. A cutter hanger I I3 supporting the kerf cutter 9 is rotatable relative to the cutter supporting frame 8 about an axis at right angles to the supporting frame axis 1, and the cutter hanger H3 has an annular bearing groove I I4 rotatably sup ported on a plural part annular bearing member II5 secured to the tiltable cutter supporting frame 8. The kerf cutter 9 is herein of the thinkerf type in the form of what has been known as a coal saw and comprises a relatively thin outter bar having mounted for circulation about its margin, a cutter bit carrying cutter chain H8, and the means for driving this cutter chain comprises a bevel pinion II'I secured to the forward end of the motor power shaft I1 and meshing, as shown in Fig. 3, with a bevel gear II8 housed within the yoke shaped frame of the cutter head which is herein made hollow, and journaled on a shaft II9 suitably supported within this yoke shaped frame. The bevel gear H8 meshes with and drives a bevel gear I20 fixed to a transverse shaft I2I suitably journaled within the yoke frame and swingable cutter support. This shaft I 2| has connectible thereto as by a jaw clutch I22 a bevel pinion I23 meshing with a large bevel gear I24 fixed to a shaft I25 arranged with its axis coincident with the axis of swinging movement of the kerf cutter and suitably journaled within the cutter hanger II3, as shown in Fig. 4. Fixed to the shaft I25 and driven thereby is a chain sprocket I26 which engages and drives the cutter chain H6. The cutter hanger H3 is swingable relative to the cutter supporting frame 8 and may be held in different positions relative to the cutter supporting frame, that is positions lengthwise of the machine and right angle positions at opposite sides of the machine, by means of a pivoted latch I21 pivoted at I28 on the cutter hanger H3 and swingable into engagement with a notch I29 formed on the cutter supporting frame 8. A plurality of notches I29 are provided whereby the cutter support may be locked in its different angular positions relative to the cutter supporting frame. When it is desired to swing the cutter hanger relative to the cutter supporting frame 8 the latch I21 may be swung outwardly from engagement with a notch I29 and the cutter hanger may then be manually swung to the desired position and thereafter locked in position by the latch.

The cutter supporting frame 8 is pivotally mounted at 1 on the arms of the yoke-shaped frame I05 for swinging movement relative thereto about an axis coincident with the axis of the shaft I2! and at right angles to the axis of swinging movement of the kerf cutter. This cutter supporting frame 8 is provided with trunnions I30 pivotally mounted at I3I within bearing supports formed integral with the yoke shaped frame I05. The improved mechanism for swinging the cutter supporting frame 8 relative to the yoke frame I05 to move the kerf cutter into different angularly related planes relative to the cutter head axis herein comprises a bevel pinion I32 secure-d to and driven by the shaft I25 and meshing with oppositely rotatable reverse bevels I33, I34. These reverse bevels are selectively connectible by multiple disc clutches I35 and I36, respectively, to a shaft I31 alined with the shaft I2I and suitably journaled within the cutter supporting frame. The shaft I31 has keyed thereto at I38 an eccentric member I39. This eccentric member has rotatably mounted thereon through an anti-friction bearing MB an annular member MI. Secured as by bolts I42 to an annular flange I43 formed integral with the tiltable cutter supporting frame 8 is an annular guide frame I 54 having a plurality of radially located chambers I45 in each of which there is sli-dably guided a plunger I46. These plungers engage in sliding abutting relation the exterior periphery of ring member I II, and are formed at their outer extremities with tooth like projections I41 adapted to engage with a wedging action the inclined surfaces of tooth like portions I48 formed on an annular flange I49 integral with an end plate I50 bolted to the adjacent arm of the yoke-shaped frame I05. This mechanism forms a speed reducing mechanism between the shaft I31 and the tiltable frame H5, and as the eccentric I38 is revolved by the shaft I31, the plungers I46 are driven radially outwards through the guide frame I44 so that the ends of the plungers engage the inclined sides of the tooth like projections I58 and thereby transmit rotary motion to the annular frame I44 to tilt the cutter supporting frame 8 about the axis of the shaft I31. The operation of the tooth like plungers is continuous and the elements of this speed reducing mechanism form what might be termed a continuous Wedge speed reducing mechanism. It will thus be seen that when one or the other of the disc clutches I35, I36 is applied, the cutter supporting; frame 8, together with the kerf cutter supported thereby may be tilted in one direction or the other about the axis of the shaft I2I relative to the yoke-shaped frame I05 of the cutter head.

As a part of mechanism for controlling the disc clutches I35, I36 to obtain a variable speed drive through these clutches and to provide additional speed reducing means, there is formed on the hub of the bevel gear I 33 a continuous cam groove I55 with which engages a pin I56 carried by a plunger I51 guided Within a bore I58 formed in the bearing bracket I59 supporting the shaft I31. This plunger is slotted at I60 and projecting within the slot thereof is a pin IGI carried by a lever I62 pivoted at 63 on an adjustable support I64 mounted on the shaft I31. The other end of the lever I62 is pivoted at I65 to a rod I66. This rod has an enlarged portion lBlwith which engages a trunnion device H53 pivotally connected at I69 to a clutch shipper lever no. This enlarged portion l6? forms shoulders l'll, ill, and interposed between nuts H2, H2 threadedly connected to the rod and washers I13, I13, respectively, are coiled springs I14, it'd. The support member EM is internally grooved'at H5 for engagement with a transverse pin Ill extending through slots H6 in the shaft is? and carried by a rod H8 mounted for axial movement within the shaft which is herein made hollow for receiving the rod. The outer end of this red is connected to a rotatable operating handle H9 threaded at I88 within the plate i553. It will thus be seen that when the handle I88 is turned, the rod H8 is moved either inwardly or outwardly to change the position of the fulcrum m3 of the lever 32. When the parts are in the position shown in Fig. 3, and the cam I55 is revolved, the plunger I5? is moved axiany back and forth thereby to swing the lever and apply intermittently the friction clutch E36. By varying the position of the lever fulcrum the time of application of the clutch 186 may be varied to obtain a variable speed drive between the gear E3 1 and the shaft I33. When the lever fulcrum is moved in the opposite direction, the drive is effected intermittently at variable speeds from the gear I33 through the friction clutch I35. This variable speed clutch operating means is substantially similar in operation as that described above in connection with the drum drive gearing, and therefore further description thereof is submitted unnecessary, other than to state that the cutter supporting frame 8 may be rocked in its bearings relative to the yoke shaped frame i 95 either upwardly or downwardly through a wide range of speeds including a maximum low speed and intermittent speeds between the maximum low speed and zero. When the cutter supporting frame 8 is disconnected from its drive, the continuous Wedge plunger mechanism maintains automatically the same in its tilted position.

The improved mining machine is constructed to operate while supported on a wheeled truck, for instance a transport truck for moving the machine from one working place to another, and the truck driving means on the machine comprises a polygonal driving element 98! formed on the shaft 39, as shown in Fig. 10, and engageable in the polygonal socket formed on the truck driving element on the truck. The polygonal driving element l8l is arranged within a member I82 secured to the rear end wall of the frame 20 and having .a chamber I83 therein for receiving the truck driving element on the truck. It will thus be seen that the truck wheels of the truck on which the machine is supported may be driven through a wide range of speeds through the variable speed mechanism of the drum driving means, it being possible to drive the truck wheels at relatively low variable speeds or at a relatively high predetermined speed, as conditions may require.

The operation of the improved mining machine will be clearly apparent from the description given. When the parts are in the position shown in Fig. 13, the kerf cutter is disposed longitudinally of the machine atthe level of the mine floor, and the machine is operating as a shortwall bottom cutter. When the parts are thus disposed the feed cable I? is extended from the feed drum l around the guide sheaves I4, H at the advancing side of the machine, and the free end of this rope is extended'laterally from the forward end of the skid frame to a suitable anchor located at the left hand rib. The controlling cable i3 is extended from the control drum ll around the adjacent guide sheave l4 and rearwardly from the machine to a suitable anchor located at the right hand rib. With the parts thus disposed the kerf cutter is sumped in and fed transversely across the face to cut a relatively narrow horizontal kerf beneath the coal. In Fig. 14 the machine is shown ina position to operate as a shortwall overcutter with the kerf cutter disposed at the level of the mine roof. When the parts are in the position shown, the kerf cutter is sumped within the coal and the machine fed transversely across the coal face by the feeding and controlling cables in .a manner identical to that described in regard to Fig. 13. In Fig. 15 the machine is shown with thecutter head in the position to effect a shearing cut in the coal face. When the kerf cutteris in the position shown, the feeding and controlling cables are arranged in a manner to effect movement of the machine rectilinearly towards the coal face to sump the kerf cutter within the coal. When the parts are disposed in the position shown in Fig. 15, the arm structure 4 is swung downwardly to effect swinging of the kerf cutter about the axis of the arm structure thereby to make a vertical or shear cut in the face of the coal. In Fig. 16 the machine is shown operating as a longwall strip pit machine with the kerf cutter disposed in a vertical plane to cut a vertical kerf beneath the level of the mine floor, the

machine being fed in the longitudinal direction by means of either of the feed ropes. In Fig. 17 the machine is shown operating as a' strip pit shortwall cutter with the kerf cutter disposed in a vertical plane in planes parallel with the face of the coal. When the cutter bar is in the 7 shown, the machine is fed laterally across the coal face by the feed operating and controlling "means in a manner similar to that described above in regard to Fig. 13. In Fig. 18 the ma-. chine is shown operating as a longwall bottom cutter with the kerf cutter disposed in a position at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the machine. When the bar is thus disposed the machine is operated to sump the bar beneath the,

coal and thereafter the machine is fed by the feed operating and controlling mechanism in a direction longitudinally of the coal face to cut a horizontal kerf therein. By adjustment of the arm structure, the kerf cutter may be operated to cut kerfs in various planes between the mine floor and the mine roof. In Fig. 19 the machine position is shown moving over a face conveyor. To posltion the machine as shown, the arm structure is jacked up' in its upper position by the swinging of the skid frame relative to the arm structure, the skid frame acting as a lever to lift the rear end of the arm structure in the elevated position shown. Blocks are then placed in a suitable manner beneath the arm structure frame, and. the skid is then swung upwardly into a position,

adjacent the arm structure, and thereafter suitable blocking is placed beneath the skid. With the parts thus disposed, the machine is moved over the face conveyor and lowered to the bottom at the other side of the conveyor by suitable blocking and the swinging of the skid structure relative to the arm in a similar manner.

As a result of this invention, it will be noted that an improved mining machine is provided.

having improved adjustable kerf cutting mechanism and improved mechanism for adjusting the kerf cutting mechanism. It will further be noted that an improved machine of the combination type adapted to operate as either a shortwall or longwall machine in accordance with either the room and pillar or longwall system of mining is provided, it also being possible to operate the machine as a shortwall or longwall strip pit cutter. These and other uses and advantages of the improved mining machine will, however, be clearly apparent to those skilled in the art.

While there is in this application specifically described one form which the invention may assume in practice, it will be understood that this form of the same is shown for purposes of il1ustration and that the invention may be modified and embodied in various other forms without departing from its spirit or the scope of the appended claims.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relatively thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable verticall'y therewith, said motor being disposed in advance of the arm structure pivot and having its casing forming an intermediate portion of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm structure to swing relative to the later about an axis parallel with the arm structure pivot axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, said cutter support being swingable about its pivot relative tosaid arm structure to move said kerf cutter into angularly related cutting planes.

2. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable vertically therewith, said motor being disposed in advance of the arm structure pivot and having its casing forming an intermediate portion of said arm structure, a cutter head rotatable on the outer extremity of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said cutter head to swing relative thereto, when said cutter head is in a predetermined position about its axis, about an axis parallel with the arm structure pivot axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, said cutter support being swingable about its pivot relative to said cutter head, when the latter is in said predetermined position, to move said kerf cutter into angularly related cutting planes.

3. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted at its rearward extremity on the rearward portion of said base to swing relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure in advance of its pivotal axis and swingable therewith for swinging said arm structure relative to said base, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said cutter head, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, and means actuated by said motor for swinging said cutter support relative to said cutter head to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes.

4. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted at its rearward extremity on the rearward portion of said. base t swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure in advance of its pivotal axis and swingable therewith for swinging said arm structure relative to said base, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said cutter head, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, said kerf cutter being swingable with said cutter support about the support axis into relatively inclined cutting planes, and means driven by said motor for tilting said cutter support relative to said cutter head to move said kerf cutter into aforesaid relatively inclined cutting planes.

5. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable vertically therewith, said motor being disposed in advance of the arm structure pivot and having its casing forming an intermediate portion of said arm structure, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mount-ed on said cutter head, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, said cutter support being swingable relative to said head, when the latter is in predetermined position about its axis, about an axis parallel with the arm structure pivot axis to move said kerf cutter into angularly related cutting planes, and means driven by said motor for actuating said kerf cutter.

6. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor having a casing and carried by said arm structure and swingable therewith for swinging said arm structure relative to said base, said motor being disposed in advance of the arm structure pivot and having its casing forming an intermediate portion of said arm structure, said casing tilting with said arm structure as the latter swings a yoke-shaped cutter head rotatably mounted on said arm structure, a cutter support mounted on said yoke-shaped head to rock relative thereto, and a keri cutter carried by said cutter support.

'7. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable therewith for swinging said arm structure relative to said base, a yoke-shaped cutter head rotatably mounted on said arm structure, a cutter support mounted on said yoke-shaped head to rock relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and swingable with the latter about the support axis into relatively inclined cutting planes, and means driven by said motor for tilting said cutter support relative to said head to move said kerf cutter into aforesaid relatively inclined cutting planes.

8. In a mining machine, a skid slidable on its bottom on the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing vertically relative thereto, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and turnable thereon to position a kerf cutter supported thereby into positions for cutting horizontal and vertical kerfs respectively, a cutter support swingably mounted on said head about an axis at right angles to the head axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said swingable cutter support and swingable with the latter into relatively inclined cutting planes with respect to said arm and said cutter head.

mounted on said skid to swing vertically rela-' tive thereto, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and turnable through a complete revolution relative thereto, a cutter support swingably mounted on said head about an axis at right angles to the head axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said swingable cutter support and swingable relative to the latter.

10. In a mining machine, a skid slidable on its bottom on the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing vertically relative thereto, a cutter head rotatably' mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and turnable through a complete revolution relative thereto, a cutter support swingably mounted on saidhead about an axis at right angles to the head axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said swingable cutter support and swingable relative to the latter about an axis arranged at right angles to the axis of tilting movement of said cutter support.

11. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing vertically relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried at the outerextremity of said arm, and flexible feeding means for the machine including a flexible element engaging feed member arranged with its axis alinedwith the arm pivot axis.

12. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a yoke-shaped cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and turn able through a complete revolution relative thereto, a cutter support tiltably mounted on said cutter head and swingable relative thereto about an axis at right angles to the cutter head axis.

.13. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing vertically relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried at the outer extremity of said arm, and means for feeding and guiding the machine including relatively rotatable flexible element engaging feed and guide members arranged with their axes alined with the pivotal axis of said arm.

14. In a mining machine, a bottom skid, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing vertically relative thereto, a frame rotatably mounted on said arm to turn about an axis extending longitudinally ocf said arm, a support pivotally mounted on said rotatable frame to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to the frame axis, a cutter hanger rotatably mounted on said swingable support to turn relative thereto, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter hanger.

15. In a mining machine, a bottom skid, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing vertically relative thereto, a yoke-shaped frame rotatably mounted on said arm to turn about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a support pivotally mounted on said rotatable yoke frame between the arms thereof to swing relative therea cutter hanger rotatably mounted on said swingable support to turn relative thereto, andakerf cutter carried by said cutter hanger.

16. In a mining machine, a bottom skid, an

, arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing in a vertical direction relative-thereto, a motor supported by said arm, and a kerf cutter pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and driven by said motor, said kerf cutter being mounted on said arm for tilting movement about an axis parallel to a plane including the arm pivot axis into relatively inclined cuttingplanes with respect to said arm.

17. In a mining machine, a bottom skid slidable in any direction upon the mine bottom, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid, a motor carried by said arm and having a casing, the motor casing constituting a rigid portion of the arm,a kerf cutter carried by said arm and driven by said motor, and means for moving said kerf cutter into parallel cutting planesat different elevations including means driven bysaid motor for swinging said arm relative to the skid.

18. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter'support, said kerf cutter having a driving motor having a casing rigid with said arm whereby said motor swings vertically with said arm, and said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative tosaid arm to move said .kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a cutting plane parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a cutting plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm.

19. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swingin a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to the support axis, said kerf cutter having a driving motor having a casing rigid with said arm whereby said motor swings vertically with said arm, and said cutter support being swingable througha relatively wide range relative to said arm to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a plane wherein the kerf cutter pivot is at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a plane wherein the kerf cutter pivot is parallel to-a line parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm.

20. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm overlying said base and pivotally mounted at its rearward end on said base atthe rearward end of the latter to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a frame carried on the outer extremity of said arm to revolve relative thereto about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a cutter support mounted on said revolving frame to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to said frame axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said cutter support being swingable through a'relatively wide range relative to said revolving frame into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a cutting plane parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a cutting plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm. 21. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm overlying said base and'pivotally mounted cutter support and swingable relative to the latter about an axis at right angles to the support axis, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said revolving frame into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position wherein the kerf cutter pivot is at right angles to the revolving frame axis to a position wherein the kerf cutter pivot lies in the same straight line with the frame axis.

22. In a mining machine, a low compact bottom skid adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried at the outer extremity of said arm, and motor operated means including arm elevating mechanism arranged between said arm and said bottom skid beneath said arm for swinging said arm about its pivotal axis on said skid, said arm overlying said elevating mechanism and the latter lying closely adjacent the skid in planes adjacent the mine fioor when said arm is in its lowered position on said skid.

23. In a mining machine, a low compact bottom skid adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried at the outer extremity of said arm, and motor operated means including hydraulic arm elevating means arranged beneath said arm for swinging said arm about its axis on said skid, said elevating means including a hydraulic cylinder containing a piston and arranged between said arm and said bottom skid, said arm overlying said hydraulic elevating means and the latter lying closely adjacent said skid in planes adjacent the mine floor when said arm is in its lowered position on said skid.

24. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said kerf cutter having a driving motor having a casing rigid with said arm whereby said motor swings vertically with said arm, and said cutter support being swingable through a relatively Wide range relative to said arm to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a cutting plane parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a cutting plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm, and mechanism for feeding said base transversely across the coal face to effect lateral feeding of said kerf cutter in any of the aforesaid cutting planes.

25. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to the support pivot axis, said kerf cutter having a driving motor having a casing rigid with said arm whereby said motor swings vertically with said arm, and said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said arm to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a plane wherein the kerf cutter pivot is at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a plane wherein the kerf cutter pivot is parallel to a line parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm, and mechanism for moving said base transversely across the coal face to effect lateral feeding of the kerf cutter in any of the aforesaid cutting planes.

26. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm overlying said base and pivotally mounted at its rearward end on said base at the rearward end of the latter to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a frame carried on the outer extremity of said arm to revolve relative thereto about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a cutter support mounted on said revolving frame to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to said frame pivot axis, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said revolving frame to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a plane parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm, and mechanism for moving said base transversely across the coal face to effect lateral feeding of the kerf cutter in any of the aforesaid cutting planes. v

2'7. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm overlying said base and pivotally mounted at its rearward end on said base at the rearward end of the latter to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a frame carried on the outer extremity of said arm to revolve relative thereto about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said revolving frame about an axis at right angles to said frame pivot axis, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and swingable relative to the latter about an axis at right angles to the support pivot axis, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said revolving frame to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position wherein the kerf cutter pivot is at right angles to the revolving frame axis to aposition wherein the kerf cutter pivot lies in the same straight line with the frame axis, and mechanism for moving said base transversely across the coal face to effect lateral feeding of the kerf cutter in any of the aforesaid cutting planes.

28. In a mining machine, a portable base adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support carried on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said arm to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a cutting plane parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a cutting plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm.

29. In a mining machine, a portable base adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor. an arm pivotallv mounted on items said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support mounted on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to the support pivot axis, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said arm to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a plane wherein the kerf cutter pivot is at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a plane wherein the kerf cutter pivot is parallel to a line parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm.

30. In a mining machine, a portable base adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a revolving head carried at the outer extremity of said arm to rotate relative thereto about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a cutter support mounted on said revolving head to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to said head axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively Wide range relative to said revolving head to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position in a cutting plane parallel with the longitudinal axis of said arm to a position in a cutting plane at right angles to the longitudinal axis of said arm.

31. In a mining machine, a portable base adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said base to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a revolving head carried at the outer extremity of said arm to rotate relative thereto about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said revolving head to swing relative thereto about an axis at right angles to said head axis, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and swingable relative to the latter about an axis at right angles to the support pivot axis, said cutter support being swingable through a relatively wide range relative to said revolving head to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes from a position wherein the kerf cutter pivot axis is at right angles to the head axis to a position wherein the kerf cutter pivot axis is in the same straight line with the head axis.

32. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm, the motor casing forming a portion of said arm and tilting with said arm as the latter swings vertically, a kerf cutter carried by said arm, and means for moving said kerf cutter into parallel cutting planes at different elevations including means driven by said motor for swinging said arm relative to said frame.

33. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm, the motor casing forming a portion of said arm and tilting with said arm as the latter swings vertically, a kerf cutter carried by said arm, means for moving said kerf cutter into parallel cutting planes at different elevations including means driven by said motor for swinging said arm relative to said frame, and means driven 9 by said motor for propelling said frame over the mine floor.

34. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame, a motor carried by said arm, the motor casing constituting a portion of the arm and tilting with said arm as thelatter swings vertically, "a cutter support mounted on the outer extremity of said arm to swing relative thereto about an axis parallel with the arm pivot axis, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and driven by said motor, and means for moving said kerf cutter into parallel horizontal cutting planes including means driven by said motor for swinging said arm relative to said frame.

35. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any .direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on saidv frame to swing relative thereto, amotor carried by said arm, the motor casing constituting a portion of the arm, a revolving head mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and rotatable relative thereto, a. cutter support pivotally mounted on said revolving head to swing rela'- tive thereto, and a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and driven by said motor, the axis of swinging of said cutter support relative to said head being arranged parallel to the plane of cutting movement of said kerf cutter.

36. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm, the motor casing constituting a portion of the arm, a revolving head mounted on the outer extremity of said arm and rotatable relative thereto, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said revolving head to swing relative there-' to, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and driven by said motor, and means driven by said motor for swinging said arm relative to said frame and said cutter support relative to said head to move said kerf cutter into parallel cutting planes at different elevations.

37. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, but a single rigid arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter support pivotally mounted on the outer extremity of said arm, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and swingable with the latter into relatively inclined cutting planes, and motor operated means 'for actuating said kerf cutter, for swinging said arm relative to said frame and for swinging said cutter support relative to said arm.

38. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said frame to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a revolving head mounted on the outer extremity of said arm, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said revolving head, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and swingable with the latter, upon pivoting of said support on said head into relatively inclinedcutting planes, and motor operated means for actuating said kerf cutter, for swinging said arm relative to said frame, and for swinging said cutter support relative to said revolving head.

39. In a mining machine, a frame, a cutter support pivotallymounted n said frame to swing relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried by said parallel to the plane of. cuttingmovement of the kerf cutter, and mechanism for swinging said cutter support about its pivotal axis to move said kerf cutter into angularly related cutting planes including a shaftarranged with its axis coinciding with the support pivot axis, an eccentric driven by said shaft, radially disposed plungers actuated by said eccentric, a guide member for said plungers fixed to said cutter support, and a toothed member with which said plungers cooperate and fixed to said frame.

40. In a mining machine, a frame, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said frame to swing relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said support pivot axis arranged parallel to the plane of cutting movement of the kerf cutter, and mechanism for swinging said cutter support about its pivotal axis to move said kerf cutter into angularly related cutting planes including a shaft arranged with its axis coinciding with the support pivot axis, an eccentric driven by said shaft, an annular member mounted on said eccentric and driven thereby, radially disposed plungers actuated by said eccentric through said annular member, a guide member for said plungers fixed to said support, and a toothed member with which said plungers cooperate and fixed to said frame.

41. In a mining machine, a frame, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said frame to swing relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, said support pivot axis arranged parallel to the plane of cutting movement of the kerf cutter, and mechanism for swinging said cutter support about its pivotal axis to move said kerf cutter into angularly related cutting planes including a heliocentric eccentric and plunger mechanism including a cam, plungers actuated by said cam, a plunger guide member fixed to said cutter support and a member fixed to said frame and with which said plungers cooperate.

42. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said'base to swing vertically relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried at the outer extremity of said arm structure, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable vertically therewith, said motor being disposed in advance of the arm structure pivot and having its casing forming an intermediate portion of said arm structure and tilting with said arm structure as the latter swings vertically, and means interposed between said base and arm structure beneath the latter and actuated by said motor for swinging said arm structure about its pivot relative to its base to vary the horizontal cutting plane of said kerf cutter.

43. In a mining machine, a portable base, a kerf cutter and adjustable supporting means for said kerf cutter including an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a kerf cutter driving motor carried by said arm structure and swingable vertically therewith, said motor being disposed in advance of the arm structure pivot and having its casing forming an intermediate portion of said arm structure and tilting with said arm structure as the latter swings vertically, and means for adjusting said supporting means to move said kerf cutter into parallel cutting planes at different elevations including means actuated by said motor for swinging said arm structure about its pivot.

44. In a mining machine, a portablebase, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable vertically therewith for swinging said arm structure relative to said base, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said cutter head, a plane kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, said cutter support being swingable relative to said cutter head about an axis parallel to the plane of said kerf cutter, and means actuated by said motor for swinging said cutter support relative to said cutter head to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes extending transversely of the working face.

45. In a mining machine, a portable base, an arm structure pivotally mounted on said base to swing vertically relative thereto, a motor carried by said arm structure and swingable vertically therewith for swinging said arm structure relative to said base, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm structure, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said cutter head, a plane kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and actuated by said motor, said cutter support being swingable relative to said cutter head about an axis parallel to the plane of said kerf cutter, means actuated by said motor for swinging said cutter support relative to said cutter head to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes extending transversely of the working face, and means driven by said motor for feeding the machine transversely across the working face when said kerf cutter is in any of adjacent relatively inclined cutting planes.

46. In a mining machine, a skid slidable on its bottom on the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing vertically relative thereto, a cutter head rotatably mounted on the outer extremity of said arm, a cutter support swingably mounted on said cutter head and a plane kerf cutter carried by said swingable cutter support, the cutter support being swingable relative to said head about an axis parallel with the plane of said kerf cutter and at right angles to the head axis.

47. In a mining machine, a skid slidable on its bottom on the mine floor, an arm pivotally mounted on said skid to swing vertically relative thereto, a cutter head rotatably mounted'on the outer extremity of said arm about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm at right angles to the arm pivot axis, a cutter support swingably mounted on said cutter head, and a plane kerf cutter carried by said swingable cutter support, the cutter support being swingable relative to said head about an axis parallel with the plane of said kerf cutter at right angles to the head axis.

48. In a mining machine, a bottom skid, an arm pivotally mounted at its rearward end on said skid to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a kerf cutter carried at the outer extremity of said arm, and motor operated means for moving said kerf cutter into parallel cutting planes at different elevations including arm elevating means arranged between said arm and said bottom skid and connected to said arm near the arm pivot axis at the rear end of said arm and disposed and operating in substantially horizontal planes between said skid and said arm.

49. In a mining machine, a skid slidable on its bottom onthe mine floor, an arm overlying said skid and pivotally mounted at its rearward extremity on the rearward portion of said skid to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto, a cutter head mounted on the outer extremity of said arm for rotation about an axis extending longitudinally of said arm, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said cutter head to tilt relative thereto about an axis at right angles to the head axis, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support and operative when swung to out a plane kerf, the pivotal axis of said cutter support lying in a plane parallel to the planes of swinging movement of said kerf cutter, a motor for actuating said kerf cutter, means actuated by said motor for swinging said arm relative to said skid to vary the elevation of said cutter head, and means actuated by said motor for swinging said cutter support about its pivot relative to said cutter head to move said kerf cutter into relatively inclined cutting planes with respect to said arm.

50. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said frame toswing in a vertical direction relative thereto about a horizontal axis, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, and flexible feeding means for the machine including a flexible element engaging feed member arranged with its axis alined with the cutter support pivot axis.

51. In a mining machine, a frame adapted to rest upon and slide in any direction over the mine floor, a cutter support pivotally mounted on said frame to swing in a vertical direction relative thereto about a horizontal axis, a kerf cutter carried by said cutter support, and means for feeding and guiding the machine including relatively rotatable flexible element engaging feeding and guiding members arranged with their axes aligned with the pivotal axis of said cutter support.

MORRIS P. HOLMES.

first column, line 40, after "type" insert a CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION.

e.tent No. 2,062,658. December 1, 1956.

MORRIS P. HOLMES.

It is hereby certified that error appears in the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows: Page 4,

and line 4]., insert a dash after "sew; page 9, second column, line 67. claim 38, after "head" insert 5. comma; page 10, second column, line 57, claim 47, after "cutter" insert the word and; that the said Letters Patent Should be read with these corrections therein that same may conform to the record of the case in the Patent Office.

Signed and sealed this 5th day of October, A. D. 1957.

Henry Van Arsdale Acting Commissioner of Patents. 

